Craptop Update
As mentioned before, I said I would continue to press Dell’s Technical Support department. My replacement hard disk came unformatted without the integral MediaDirect program. I requested the CD’s I needed to restore the system to what it was sold with. Today I got a response. My transferred warranty doesn’t cover the missing CD’s. These are usually included with the system sold in Asia. However, I have the option of completing an online form, to receive a quote. Posts on a few forums mention invoices to be three figures US.
The system I bought was probably amongst the earliest batches shipped in the UK. I paid extra for the NVIDIA 7800 Go graphics card, top spec a year ago. I am dumbfounded as to why that the latest drivers on the Dell site are still those released 18-Jan-06. None of the standard NVIDIA drivers are compatible. I discovered during my first rebuild, the card is underclocked to 250 MHz rather than the usual 400 MHz – to keep the temperature down. That wasn’t in the sales literature.
I really need to buy a laptop with WiFi as my Spanish home is without ADSL. I was looking at Dell but read some bad things lately your experience has convinced me not to buy Dell!
Better luck in the Garden……..
Comment by Colin & Carol — February 9, 2007 @ 4:12 pm
I think a lot of big companies are like the child with the curl in the middle of their forehead.
In Dell’s case, the founder has returned to try to turn things around. I wouldn’t buy a high spec machine off them, but might consider a mid range system at the right price. I wouldn’t entertain any warranty packages though. I suppose it’s the same with everything. You’re okay until you have a problem. Do check what you need. Sounds like you want decent internet connection a router and a laptop (with WiFi).
Comment by Adekun — February 10, 2007 @ 5:26 am